As our Jewish calendar moves us through moments of celebration, memory, and reflection, each week, Shabbat links to broader meanings in our Jewish stories and texts. This week, we arrive at Shabbat Nachamu, the Shabbat of Comfort, which is named after the opening words of this week’s haftarah- “Nachamu, nachamu ami,” spoken by Isaiah, which translates to “Comfort, comfort, my people.”
Coming just a few days after Tisha B’Av, our day of mourning for the destruction of the Temples and other moments of Jewish heartbreak, Shabbat Nachamu marks an important moment in our Jewish year. It helps us to remember that we shouldn’t remain in the grief and sorrow for Tisha B’Av forever, and instead to turn to comfort and healing. It helps us to remember that even after loss and pain, hope can begin again.
This week’s Shabbat message reminds us that comfort is not about pretending everything is fine and turning away from the pain. Rather, it is about finding comfort, whether that is through acts of kindness from others, everyday miracles, or finding joy in God.
On Shabbat Nachamu, we ask ourselves- Where do I most need comfort right now? We can also ask ourselves- Who around me needs comfort- a word of encouragement, a listening ear, or simply the reminder that they are not alone? Comfort, comfort my people is a call to communal action, as well as a reminder to ourselves.
May this Shabbat renew our spirits and inspire us to be comforts for one another, helping to bring a little more hope, compassion, and healing into our world. I hope you’ll join us for Friday night services for some comfort and hope in coming together.
Shabbat Shalom,
Cantor Sydney Michaeli
